LDL (low-density lipoprotein) carries cholesterol from the liver to the tissues. The problem is that in excess it deposits it in the artery walls, forming atherosclerotic plaques.
That is exactly why LDL is called "bad" cholesterol and is considered the main target in preventing heart attack and stroke: the lower the LDL, the lower the risk.
Reference ranges
LDL target values depend on risk:
| Low risk | < 3.0 mmol/L |
| High risk | < 1.8 mmol/L |
| Very high risk | < 1.4 mmol/L |
What an elevated level means
A high LDL is the leading factor in atherosclerosis. Excess "bad" cholesterol is deposited in the arteries over years, narrowing them and raising the risk of heart attack, stroke and leg-artery disease.
Causes: saturated and trans fats in the diet, excess weight, inactivity, heredity (familial hypercholesterolemia), hypothyroidism.
How to lower it: fewer saturated/trans fats, more fiber and movement, weight loss; with high risk — statins.
What a low level means
A low LDL is, as a rule, a good thing: it means a low risk of atherosclerosis. There is no need to "raise" LDL deliberately. Very low values occasionally occur with liver disease or undernutrition — then the cause matters.
How the test is done
Venous blood as part of the lipid profile. Classically fasting, though it is now also allowed without strict fasting.
LDL is assessed not in isolation but together with total cholesterol, HDL and triglycerides — and in the context of overall cardiovascular risk.
What affects the value
- Saturated and trans fats — the main dietary factor raising LDL.
- Fiber — lowers LDL.
- Heredity — familial hypercholesterolemia raises LDL sharply.
- Weight and movement — affect the whole lipid profile.
- Thyroid gland — hypothyroidism raises LDL.
Calculate using this marker
Calculators where LDL ("bad" cholesterol) is used directly:
Frequently asked questions
What should LDL be in the normal range?
There is no single norm — the target depends on risk. With low risk the guide is usually below 3.0 mmol/L, with high risk below 1.8, with very high risk (diabetes, a prior heart attack) below 1.4. The general principle: the lower the LDL, the better.
How do I lower LDL without medication?
Fewer saturated and trans fats (fatty meat, baked goods, fast food), more soluble fiber (vegetables, legumes, oats), movement and weight loss. This can lower LDL by 10–20%. With high risk, statins are additionally needed.
Why is LDL called "bad"?
Because in excess it deposits cholesterol in the artery walls, causing atherosclerosis — the basis of heart attacks and strokes. "Good" HDL, conversely, removes cholesterol from the vessels. Hence the nicknames.